Whirlpool WM2801HLA Water Pump Replacement – Fix a Leaking or Non-Draining Washer
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If your Whirlpool WM2801HLA washer is not draining, is making loud humming or grinding noises during drain, or is leaking water from the bottom, the drain (water) pump is a common culprit. The pump moves wash water out through the drain hose; when its impeller is jammed, bearings fail, or the housing cracks, the washer will not evacuate water properly or will leak during fill/drain cycles. Often the problem starts with small objects (coins, socks, lint) jamming the impeller or debris wearing the impeller and seal over time. Replacing the pump is usually straightforward for a moderately handy homeowner: it typically involves unplugging the washer, accessing the pump by removing the back or front panel (depending on the exact production variant), disconnecting the pump electrical connector and inlet/outlet hoses, and swapping in the replacement pump. Always confirm the exact pump assembly for your machine using the model tag and part lookup because Whirlpool used a few compatible pump assemblies across models and manufacture dates.
Common Symptoms
Washer won’t drain, water remains in tub, loud humming/grinding from bottom of washer during drain, visible leak from pump area, or error codes related to draining or water level.
Common Causes
- Impeller jammed by debris (coins, small items, fabric strings)
- Pump motor failure or burned windings
- Cracked pump housing or failed internal seal causing leaks
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Confirm the pump is bad by running a drain cycle with the cabinet open (carefully) and watching for leaking or a spinning impeller; also disconnect the pump and test for continuity on the motor leads with a multimeter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to replace the drain pump on a WM2801HLA?
A typical DIY replacement takes 30–60 minutes if you have basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers). Time varies depending on whether the washer has a rear-access panel or requires removing the cabinet/front. Allow extra time to empty remaining water and to verify no other leaks.
Can I repair the pump instead of replacing it?
Sometimes you can free a jammed impeller or clean debris trapped in the pump, which can restore function. However, if the motor has no continuity, the bearings are noisy, or the housing/seal is cracked, replacement is recommended. Pumps are relatively inexpensive and replacement eliminates the risk of a recurring leak.
Related How-To Videos
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.